NZ Manufacturing, Inc., a leader in high-quality resistance training and physical rehabilitation tools, recommends its StrechCordz line as part of a comprehensive program to improve swimming strength and form.

Resistance products, such as the NZ Manufacturing StrechCordz® Long Belt Slider, are key to successful swim training. The Long Belt Slider, StrechCordz’s best-selling in-water resistance product, is a 2″ heavy waist belt with a sliding attachment connected to an 20′ latex tube. Recently improved for increased safety and comfort, it is used for resisted swim out and speed-assisted swim back exercises to accelerate quicker, strengthen the finishes of each stroke and improve swim times. Designed for 25-yard or 25-meter pools, the Long Belt Slider is available in two resistance options: green for strong swimmers, yellow for intermediate. In addition to training with the Long Belt Slider, NZ Manufacturing provides the following recommendations to improve a swimmer’s form and speed:

  • Swim regularly. Try to average at least three swims each week. Three or four shorter workouts are more effective than one or two longer ones.
  • Practice good technique. If you can’t yet balance both speed and technique, focus on form first. Develop proper hip rotation and hand movements, while minimizing your kick.
  • Vary drills. Drills help you concentrate on specific muscles and practice special techniques, both of which help reinforce good swimming skills.
  • Increase intensity. Push yourself one or two times a week. Swim faster, mix in some new techniques or try a different, more challenging workout altogether.
  • Develop instinctive techniques. Always do a technique – whether it be start, push-off or turn – the same way, so it will become second nature.
  • Cross train. Use two or more types of exercise (yoga, surfing, running) to condition different muscle groups, develop a new set of skills and reduce boredom.
  • Record sessions. Use a video camera to help you study your form and identify areas that need improvement.
  • Wear appropriate swimwear. While swimmers are known for swim caps and skin-tight suits, engineers are now helping to design suits that reduce frictional drag.
  • Use flippers occasionally. Flippers help perfect your body position and strengthen your leg muscles. When you remove them, try to maintain the position they give.
  • Eat a balanced diet. Swimmers need diets rich in carbohydrates for lasting energy and lean meats to help rebuild and strengthen muscle cells. However, experiment to discover what works for your body.

Most importantly, swimmers need to find ways to have fun during practice sessions. The more enjoyment they have while training, the more effectively they can improve their skills! NZ Manufacturing is based in Tallmadge, Ohio. For more information on the company, including additional product details, please call 1-800-886-6621 or email [email protected].